Have you recently had a tummy tuck? Or are you thinking about getting one? With this particular procedure, you should be able to see drastic results right away. However, if you want to keep your new and improved shape for as long as possible, you should take the proper steps to help your body recover. We dedicate our attention and preparation toward the weeks and days leading up to our plastic surgery in Lubbock, but it’s just as important to think about and prepare for your recovery following the procedure.

In Lubbock, plastic surgery expert and board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jane Rowley wants her patients to take care of their bodies so they can have a fast recovery and enjoy their new look. With more than 20 years of experience with tummy tuck procedures, she understands the kind of care her patients need to achieve excellent results. If you’re preparing for a tummy tuck, here’s a bit of advice from Rowley Plastic Surgery on how to have a successful recovery.

Follow Your Plastic Surgeon’s Advice

Strictly following your doctor’s orders is the most important thing you can do during your recovery after any Lubbock plastic surgery. The instructions you receive from your board-certified surgeon about caring for your post-surgery body may feel generic, but it is critical that you follow them carefully. You may even receive specific advice in addition to the general instructions that will help you care for your body’s unique needs. Listen to your doctor, and don’t ever be afraid to call with questions or concerns.

Eat Right!

After plastic surgery in Lubbock, it’s important to be even more aware of what you are putting into your body. This advice does not mean you should go on a strict diet as soon as your surgery is complete. It just means you should eat foods that make you feel good and that will give your body the energy and nutrients that it needs to heal. Make water your choice of drink and focus on eating more fruits and vegetables. You will be able to maintain your trim midsection a lot longer by simply eating right.

If you are committed to having a successful recovery after your tummy tuck, what exactly should your plate look like?

Dark leafy greens, pineapple, and other foods rich in vitamin C can aid in recovery.

Foods that might cause gas, such as cabbage and beans, should be avoided.

Steer clear of processed foods and trans fats to avoid weight gain.

Drinking plenty of water is important for proper healing.

Your body relies on quality nutrition both before and after your Lubbock plastic surgery, but you don’t need to go on a diet. A lifestyle of healthy eating can and should be maintained if you want to make your tummy tuck results last.

Stay Away from Nicotine

It is essential that patients quit smoking at least 4 to 6 weeks before their surgery and avoid smoking during recovery. Patients should stay away from any source of nicotine during this time period if they want to heal properly. Nicotine inhibits blood flow which limits the amount of oxygen that travels to the surgical wound. Without enough oxygen, tissue is at risk of dying. Nicotine can increase your risk for other complications, such as infection, blood clots, and improper healing. If you have concerns about the need to quit smoking, you can call our Lubbock office to discuss this requirement.

Move Around Slowly at First

Your doctor will recommend that after tummy tuck plastic surgery in Lubbock you take a few days to rest and have someone help you get up and walk around. After a few days, it is important to move around as much as possible to stop blood clots from forming. Light exercise like walking will help your healing process by keeping your body from becoming stiff and can help speed up the recovery of your swelling.

But it’s important to find the right amount of movement that helps and does not hurt your recovery. Heavy lifting or other strenuous workouts can be very harmful to a recovering tummy tuck patient so you should avoid these types of activities for at least three months. If you exercise too strenuously too soon after your Lubbock plastic surgery, you can actually release the muscle tightening sutures, which can cause a bulge in the stomach area.

Be Aware of Possible Pain

The more you understand about what to expect after your plastic surgery in Lubbock, the better prepared you will be to handle it. After a tummy tuck, you will have moderate pain around your torso that can last a few weeks. Experiencing pain can mean that your abdominal area may continue to shrink even more after surgery. Most patients have some pain and swelling for a few weeks that completely goes away after a few months. It’s important to consult with your surgeon about how to manage your pain and speed along your recovery process.

Don’t Do It Alone

If possible, arrange for a helping hand for a day or two following your tummy tuck plastic surgery. Lubbock patients enjoy top quality care provided by our staff before and during their surgery to ensure the procedure is successful, and support at home can help after-surgery recovery succeed as well. Simple tasks like getting out of bed, showering, changing clothes, and managing your home and health will be much less stressful if you have someone to help you. Relying on someone else for help can allow you to remain comfortable and avoid straining yourself. Lots of rest and low-body strain is necessary during your recovery. Plan on taking off work for at least two weeks following your procedure.

Be Patient With Your Body

Have you ever noticed that tummy tuck patients’ “after” photos are often taken 6 months after their surgery? That’s because the results of your Lubbock plastic surgery take time to fully reveal themselves. Your tummy will not look exactly like you may have hoped right after your procedure. After finally going through their much anticipated surgery, it can be difficult for some patients to wait during the weeks and months it takes for swelling and bruising to fade. Avoid measuring yourself for 6 months because the swelling will throw off your numbers. Try to remember that your results will be amazing, and that the steps you took to get rid of your belly bulge will be worth it.

The Care You Need for the Results You Want

A tummy tuck can help you flatten and tone your abdomen when diet and exercise just don’t seem to be doing the trick. If you are planning your tummy tuck procedure, be sure to think about your recovery just as much, if not more than your preparation. Following the above tips can help your recovery from Lubbock plastic surgery be more manageable and get you the results you want faster. But while these ideas are a good starting point for recovery advice, Dr. Jane Rowley and her caring staff have more than just this handful of tips to ensure your successful recovery. Choosing a qualified, skilled doctor like Dr. Jane Rowley and following their instructions is the best thing you can do for your body.Give Rowley Plastic Surgery a call today to schedule your no-obligation consultation.